New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez (6) on the sidelines during the game agains the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. / The Star-Ledger, USA TODAY Sports

by Kristian Dyer, Special for USA TODAY Sports

by Kristian Dyer, Special for USA TODAY Sports

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. â?? New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez will have season-ending shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum later this month, a person with knowledge of Sanchez's situation told USA TODAY Sports.

"It seems rather certain that he will have the surgery," said the person, who requested anonymity because neither Sanchez nor the Jets have announced the decision. "He just isn't ready to make it official."

The surgery, which will sideline Sanchez for the rest of the season, likely will mark the end of his playing career with the Jets. With rookie quarterback Geno Smith in place, the Jets are expected to cut ties with Sanchez at the end of the season.

Sanchez has yet to play during the regular season after injuring his shoulder in the fourth quarter of the Jets' third preseason game, a 24-21 victory over against the New York Giants.

This week, he was examined by orthopedic surgeon James Andrews for the second time since an initial visit in mid-September. Sanchez had hope to rehab the shoulder and return to the field this season, but the person said he has realized rehab won't mend the injury.

"All signs point to him having the surgery," said the person, who added the most likely time would be in late October.

Just days after his first visit with Andrews, the Jets designated Sanchez for injured reserve but designated him to return, which would have sidelined him until Week 11. With Sanchez unable to return, the Jets will lose their IR exemption.

Sanchez appeared to have won a quarterback competition with Smith, after the rookie threw three interceptions in the preseason game against the Giants. But Sanchez was inserted into that game and was injured on a hit by defensive lineman Marvin Austin.

The Jets, 2-2, have struggled on offense with Smith committing 11 turnovers -- eight interceptions and three fumbles.

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